Taiwan’s Sun Moon Lake National Scenic Area (SMLNSA) earned global recognition when it won the third-place award in the business and marketing category at the 2025 Green Destinations Top 100 Story Awards during the ITB in Berlin. The recognition was awarded for the area’s innovative efforts in promoting sustainable tourism, specifically for its Good Practice Story titled “Join Us! Harnessing Collective Wisdom to Promote Sustainable Tourism.” This award highlights the Taiwanese government’s commitment to advancing green tourism initiatives, positioning SMLNSA as a model for responsible travel practices.

A Collaborative Effort Toward Sustainability

The Tourism Administration (TA) of Taiwan shared that the award came as a result of the area’s ongoing efforts to collaborate with local businesses to encourage sustainable practices. In 2023, the SMLNSA Administration launched a series of brainstorming workshops aimed at helping local businesses implement eco-friendly strategies. These workshops focused on critical aspects of sustainability, including waste reduction and promoting low-carbon travel options. The collaborative nature of these efforts has led to substantial progress, with several prominent corporations and travel agencies already participating in promoting the area’s sustainable tourism offerings.

• Key sustainable tourism practices:
  • Waste reduction
  • Low-carbon travel
  • Promoting responsible travel packages

Previous Successes and Continuing Efforts

The Tourism Administration pointed out that this recognition marks the third time Sun Moon Lake has been awarded for its dedication to sustainability. The area’s past campaigns have already demonstrated tangible results. For example, in 2022, SMLNSA launched the “Say Goodbye to Single-Use Plastics” campaign, which involved 29 local businesses. The initiative successfully reduced carbon emissions by 206.05 kilograms, a significant accomplishment in reducing the environmental footprint of the tourism sector.

Additionally, in 2023, the area launched another innovative project titled “Use the Sustainable Tourism Model to Make Tribes Have New Possibilities – Economy Under the Forest.” This campaign helped the Indigenous Bunun tribe turn dried Maqaw seeds, a traditional food seasoning, into perfume. This initiative not only promoted sustainable practices but also provided economic opportunities for the tribe, enhancing the prosperity of the local community while maintaining cultural heritage.

The Growing Importance of Sustainable Tourism

The recognition of Sun Moon Lake’s efforts illustrates a broader trend in the tourism industry toward sustainability. Travelers are increasingly seeking destinations that prioritize environmental responsibility, and places like SMLNSA are setting new standards for what it means to be an eco-conscious travel destination. The success of the scenic area’s initiatives demonstrates the potential for positive change when tourism is aligned with sustainability goals.

As travelers become more mindful of their environmental impact, destinations that embrace sustainable tourism practices, such as those seen at Sun Moon Lake, will continue to see an increase in demand. This is particularly relevant as the tourism industry continues to recover from the pandemic, with an increasing focus on environmentally responsible travel choices. The growing global interest in green tourism provides travelers with the opportunity to experience destinations in a more sustainable way, making destinations like Sun Moon Lake a compelling option for those looking to reduce their carbon footprints while still enjoying a rich cultural and natural experience.

A Rising Trend in Eco-Conscious Travel

SMLNSA’s recognition further signifies the rise of eco-conscious tourism as a critical factor influencing global travel trends. Destinations that are embracing green tourism practices are more likely to attract eco-aware travelers who are eager to support local communities while minimizing their environmental impact. The integration of sustainability in travel offerings, including reduced carbon emissions and waste management, will continue to shape the tourism sector’s future.

In addition to Taiwan, other global destinations are taking note of this shift in the market and adopting similar practices to cater to a more environmentally aware audience. As these efforts become more widespread, sustainable tourism is expected to become a major focal point for the global travel industry, influencing not just local economies but also contributing to global environmental conservation.

Recognizing Cultural and Traditional Contributions

In the same awards ceremony, Taiwan’s National Center for Traditional Arts in Yilan also earned recognition in the culture and tradition category. The center received third place for its campaign “Be a Sharer: The Revitalization of the Traditional Orange Turtle Sharing Culture.” This recognition highlights the increasing intersection between cultural preservation and sustainable tourism. As destinations like Sun Moon Lake integrate traditional cultural elements with modern sustainability practices, travelers are provided with opportunities to engage with local heritage in a way that supports both environmental and cultural conservation.

A Model for the Future of Travel

Sun Moon Lake’s achievement is not just a recognition of its local efforts but also an illustration of how sustainable tourism practices can shape the future of travel worldwide. As destinations increasingly recognize the importance of environmental stewardship and cultural preservation, travelers will benefit from more authentic, responsible, and eco-friendly tourism experiences. The awards not only reflect Taiwan’s commitment to sustainable tourism but also contribute to a larger global conversation about the future of the travel industry and its role in protecting the planet.

The post How Did Sun Moon Lake Earn Global Recognition as a Green Destination at ITB Berlin? A Closer Look at Its Sustainable Tourism Practices appeared first on Travel And Tour World.